In celebration of its twentieth anniversary, Galerie Joaquin presented a special exhibition of master painters and contemporary artists, and a dinner gala attended by the some of the Philippine art scene's luminaries
The idea of an ‘artist-centred’ gallery is nothing new in the art world, but only a few can claim that they have the same level of dedication to such a concept as Galerie Joaquin. In fact, this very same idea can be seen in the design of the gallery spaces of Galerie Joaquin throughout Metro Manila and up to their programmes and activities that cater to the development of both artists and enthusiasts.
Founded at the heart of the quaint city of San Juan in 2002, Galerie Joaquin has since expanded to other parts of the metro and has grown a sizable roster of artists. It has also evolved into a group of galleries, each with a niche of its own.

Above The gallery's art space | From their website
Inside, masterpieces of art stalwarts such as National Artist Arturo Luz and Presidential Medal of Merit Juvenal Sanso can be seen side by side with explorative works of contemporary mavens by the likes Eufemio Rasco IV, Jerry Morada, Vincent de Pio, and Aileen Lanuza.
For a gallery, reaching 20 years is no simple feat, and thus, it deserves a celebration.
See also: Juvenal Sansó: Master of Visual Artistry
The Emerald Exhibit: 20 Years of Galerie Joaquin at Greenbelt

Above The ribbon cutting ceremony lead by Mark Sablan, Assistant Vice President of Ayala Land, Inc. and Jack Teotico, President of Galerie Joaquin | Courtesy of Galerie Joaquin
Located at ‘The Gallery’ Amphitheater in Greenbelt 5, The Emerald Exhibit is a homage to the two decades of the Galerie Joaquin group, unveiled on November 16.
"We decided to put up Galerie Joaquin’s first branch in San Juan City twenty years ago. Even then, our vision was quite clear: we wanted a venue, in truth, several venues, to exhibit good art. Many of my friends in the Saturday Group helped by offering their artworks to our start-up gallery. Our second objective then was also clear. Aside from showing great art from the masters, we wanted to give young and deserving artists a platform for them to display and market their artistic creations. A third objective was to provide employment not only for the vast array of artists that would eventually join our teams and sister galleries, but also to help promote and improve the livelihood of our own staff and employees," Jack Teotico, Galerie Joaquin Group's founder and president.
The exhibit features a diverse offering of works by long-time partner artists and emerging talents nurtured by the gallery. One is taken to an artistic masterclass with Sanso’s floral compositions resonating with Norberto Carating’s minimalist abstract impressionism and Marge Organo’s inspired glass art. All while the senses are bewildered with Mario Parial’s works that serve as the perfect complement to genre masters Angelito Antonio and Norma Belleza, among others.
See also: Inside a Curator's Mind: Ricky Francisco Shares His Journey in the Art World
A Night of Emerald Stars: Thanksgiving Dinner at the Manila Peninsula

Above Jack Teotico of Galerie Joaquin | Courtesy of Galerie Joaquin

Above Managers and curators of the galleries under Galerie Joaquin group | Courtesy of Gallrie Joaquin
The Galerie Joaquin Group hosted a night of celebration at The Peninsula Manila that gathered the gallery's employees, partners in the industry, and the Philippines’ most prominent artists.
"When you see all the hard work that everyone has put in to grow the business, to care for the art and artists, and to become a closer family, it's an emotional journey," shares Nicholas Teotico, managing director for operations of Galerie Joaquin. "To see everyone in the room having fun and celebrating the gallery's legacy makes me very happy."
Read also: Revisiting Arturo Luz's 2017 Retrospective Exhibition Virtually

Above Lee with multi-media artist Toym Imao, son of National Artist Abdulmari de Leon Imao | Courtesy of Galerie Joaquin
Above Catriona Gray, Tess and award-winning sculptor Michael Cacnio | Courtesy of Galerie Joaquin
When asked about what's next for Galerie Joaquin, Nicholas says, "We may be looking to expand internationally. Aside from that, we are also on a mission to give the spotlight to young artists while still honouring the legacies of the masters in visual art."
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